The Gear Factory

Roaches, constantly broken heaters, black mold and a sneaky owner/landlord. While the concept of the place is cool and holds potential this place is a health hazard and should be avoided

Lived here for almost 2 years and had my car broken into about 5 times, have witnessed first-hand tenants OD, watched homeless men shit in the parking lot in broad daylight, and even witnessed tenants physically assault other people in the common area until someone required hospitalization and staples in their head. Note that overall the car break-ins and general questionable safety are fairly common experiences amongst residents and artists here; speak to anyone who frequents this building regularly who has lived or worked here longer than a year and you are guaranteed to hear a story of a broken car window or someone being verbally accosted by the homeless who camp out around the building. Although the gear factory cannot be faulted for being in an unsafe part of town, you should be aware of what you’re signing up for. Also note that there have been documented roach and mice problems over the years - nothing too significant, and again, a pretty typical problem for any New York residence so I wouldn’t say this problem is out of the ordinary. What I will say is out of the ordinary is the experience you’ll be getting here. I want to be very clear - if you sign up for the live/work residents on the 4th and 5th floor, what you are paying for is some square footage and a full fridge. Everything else (your bathroom, your kitchen, your laundry room, your living room) all of it is shared with 15 other strangers living on your floor. So imagine dorm style living but with complete strangers and you’re paying $1100+ a month to shower with shoes on and use coin operated laundry. This is the reality of what you will be paying for. Also know that the rent is subject to change DRASTICALLY without advance warning. I received a $300 rental increase with less than 30 days notice which inevitably caused me to lose my housing altogether. This increase was posted on my door in writing 18 days after my car was broken into for the 5th time. I had to notify the landlord after the initial rental increase that New York renters law allows 60 days notice before any increase could take effect. The fact this correction needed to be made proves that the owner is comfortable and willing to make drastic adjustments to binding contracts without seeking advice from a lawyer in advance, so please be aware of that behavior as he is the sole owner and operator of this business. Last but certainly not least, I think it’s important to consider the culture of the place you’re signing yourself up for. If you decide this is your home for the foreseeable future, I highly recommend you speak candidly with the other people in the building before signing or committing to anything. Ask why there are so many vacancies right now. Ask why there are cameras in your private communal spaces. Ask how much other tenants are paying vs what you’re being charged. Ask what the challenges are with sharing communal spaces. Ask if people feel safe and comfortable in their home and if they feel supported and encouraged by the environment they are paying for. Smell every bathroom. Be informed before committing to an idea that may not be what is being advertised.

Gear Factory is a fun place to visit when they have an art show or other activity happening. Large cross-section of people mingling, chatting, and having a good time. Interesting art is always displayed, even when there are no shows going on.

I have taken several paintings class with David Steinman ( art by stein) his studio is always clean a peaceful for painting. The restrooms have always been spotless. I look forward to my next painting class.